**Knock! Knock!**
**Tch-tch!**
**Shhhk!-Thwack!**
The absolute silence of the Hidden Library was interrupted by the dry sound of wooden swords clashing in a constant and disciplined rhythm. Each strike resonated clearly in the open space, an area designed solely for training, devoid of embellishments or distractions, where technique and precision reigned above all.
The lamps illuminated the place firmly, without flickers or shadows distorting the view. Every movement could be observed with total clarity, every attack executed with absolute precision.
Kirito, dressed in his black training outfit, held his sword with one hand, his posture relaxed yet unyielding.
**Shhh!**
**Thwack!**
His movements flowed with overwhelming naturalness, as if each shift had already been decided before execution.
**Knock! Knock!**
**Drip... drip...**
In front of him, Vaelinne, dressed in her red training clothes, soaked in sweat, held her sword with both hands, attacking with strength and determination.
—"Haaah... haaah..."
**Drip... drip...**
Outside the combat area, Lyrielle sat on the ground, her breathing still ragged, her body covered in sweat after her confrontation with Kirito.
She had been the first to challenge him, pushing her endurance to the limit, and now, with her heart still racing, she attentively observed the combat between Kirito and Vaelinne. Her eyes followed each movement with precision, analyzing every strike, every defense, every adjustment in Kirito's posture, whose fluidity seemed almost unattainable.
**Step!-Shhh!**
Vaelinne pivoted on her right heel, her foot barely brushing the ground with an agile and precise movement. The dry sound of her shift resonated loudly, the friction of her footwear marking her momentum.
**Fwip!-Whoosh!**
Her body leaned slightly forward, the inertia of the turn propelling her attack. The air was sliced with a sharp whistle as her sword descended at a calculated angle to surprise Kirito.
**Knock!-Tch-tch!**
At the last moment, Kirito tilted his wrist with minimal rotation, deflecting the blow with millimetric accuracy. The wood squeaked upon contact, the impact dissipating as if absorbed by his perfect defense.
**Tch!-Thwack!-Shhhk!**
Without allowing a pause, Vaelinne adjusted her grip with a firm movement, flexed her arms, and changed the trajectory of her next attack. Her sword traced a powerful descending arc, seeking to impose her strength.
**Step!-Fwip!-Tok!**
Without losing his serene expression, Kirito took a slight step to the left, his movement so precise that he seemed to float above the ground. The inertia of Vaelinne's attack continued its course, her sword striking the ground forcefully.
**Tch!-Knock!-Shhhk!**
But before she could readjust, Kirito had already turned his weapon, taking advantage of her momentary imbalance to launch a calculated counterattack.
**Thwack!**
—"Aaah!"
Vaelinne gritted her teeth, gripping her sword with both hands as she blocked the offensive.
The impact coursed through her arms, shaking them with the force of the blow, but she held her position firmly.
**Knock!-Tch-tch!-Thwack!-Shhhk!**
Every time she thought she had found an opening, Kirito dismantled her offensive with calculated movements.
—"Haaah!"
**...Drip...Drip...**
Finally, after another attack easily deflected, Vaelinne gasped and paused for a moment, gripping her sword tightly, her frustration reflected in her expression.
—"Five years training together and not once have we made you sweat, Kirito!"
Her voice vibrated with the intensity of the moment, an echo resonating in the training space.
**Tch!**
Kirito lowered his sword slightly, a faint smile crossing his face as he calmly observed Vaelinne.
—"Do you want me to try harder? And what would be the benefit for both of us if I gave it my all?"
His words were neither arrogant nor challenging, but a straightforward revelation about the purpose of training.
**Shhh!**
From outside the fight, Lyrielle listened intently, her posture relaxed and her breathing already controlled. Her pulse had calmed after the fatigue of the previous encounter, but her attention remained fixed on Kirito's words.
Without saying a word, she nodded slightly; she knew he was right.
Vaelinne let out a slight sigh, her frustration still present.
—"I know... but I thought I could make you take it more seriously. And that's what I'll try to do now."
**Tch-tch!**
She gritted her teeth, readjusted her grip, and took a more aggressive stance.
**Fwip!**
If she wanted Kirito to fight seriously, she would have to force him to do so.
**Tch!**
Vaelinne readjusted her stance, her feet settling firmly on the ground, marking her readiness for the next attack.
**Shhhk!**
She slightly bent her knees, the fabric of her training clothes brushing against her skin with a soft sound, her body primed for the offensive.
**Fwoomp!**
Her muscles tensed, gathering energy for the next movement.
—"Haaah..."
Her breathing deepened in a brief controlled sigh, the air flowing precisely through every fiber of her being.
**Fwip!**
Her fingers tightened around the sword's grip firmly, ensuring her hold to lose no moment in her offensive.
**Whoosh!**
In a single explosive movement, she launched a new attack, her sword cutting through the air with power, her speed and determination reflected in every inch of its trajectory.
Kirito did not counterattack immediately. Instead, he began to manipulate the rhythm of the confrontation, moving with an unsettling precision.
**Tch-tch!**
Each time Vaelinne attacked, he calculated the exact angle, deflecting her sword with minimal but effective movements.
Rather than blocking with force, Kirito made each of Vaelinne's blows deflect just enough to alter her center of gravity.
Vaelinne felt the misalignment in her balance and tried to correct it. But just at that moment, Kirito slid the tip of his sword against hers.
**Shhhk!**
The sudden contact forced Vaelinne to readjust her grip, her pulse quickening due to the unexpected change in the rhythm of the fight.
**Tok!**
The next blow was not a direct attack but an exact adjustment at the precise moment.
Vaelinne felt the change in her posture, her weight poorly distributed due to Kirito's subtle manipulation. She tried to correct it, but it was already too late.
**Tch!**
Kirito advanced with a single calculated movement, sliding his wooden sword with absolute precision until he stopped it against Vaelinne's neck.
—"It's over, Vaelinne."
Absolute silence.
—"Haaah... haaah..."
Vaelinne breathed heavily, her chest rising and falling with each labored inhalation.
**Drip... drip...**
Drops of sweat slid down her neck, falling to the firm ground, her body still tense from the effort of the fight.
—"If I were to take this seriously, you wouldn't learn anything."
**Shhhk!**
Kirito gently lowered the sword, maintaining his calm expression.
—"This training is for you and Lyrielle, but also for me... Because constant training betrays no one."
—"Yes... Haaah... I lost."
**Fwip!**
**Step!**
From her position as an observer, Lyrielle smiled slightly, settling down calmly, already recovered from her heavy breathing. She understood that this training not only strengthened Vaelinne but also kept Kirito's technique sharp.
—"Besides, who was it that asked me to adjust my strength to yours when I started training you?"
Kirito looked at Vaelinne with an expression that made his intention clear.
—"Haaah... That was..."
Vaelinne could not find an immediate response and turned her gaze elsewhere, avoiding answering. She knew Kirito did not use all his strength, but he did use his technique, which he had polished over all these years.
—"Alright, Kirito, we understand your point..."
Lyrielle stood up calmly, trying to divert the topic to save her companion from the discomfort. She then continued in a thoughtful tone.
—"But I have a question regarding what you said..."
—"And what is it?"
Kirito went along with her, but he knew her question was not merely to change the subject but a genuine desire to learn more. Vaelinne, still recovering, also paid attention.
—"Well, I understand that by teaching us you keep your skills sharp, but... can you become stronger by practicing with someone who has less skill than you?"
Lyrielle asked with genuine curiosity. Over the years, she had noticed that despite training with them, Kirito never showed weakness in practice. Even though they had become the strongest among all the other pilots, his technique continued to perfect itself with every session.
—"Humm... That's a good question."
Kirito adopted a thoughtful expression, bringing a hand to his chin before responding.
—"The short answer is: yes..."
—"And the long one?"
Vaelinne, now in a better mood, encouraged him to continue. Although she did not enjoy overly sophisticated explanations, she appreciated the clarity with which Kirito conveyed complex information understandably.
Kirito's smile widened a bit more, and without making them wait, he began to explain.
—"When you train with someone less skilled than you, it's not just about improving your strength or speed. If I only focused on physical superiority, my skills would become rigid, predictable. Instead, by training with you, I constantly have to adapt my technique, read your patterns, anticipate your evolution. That forces me to refine every little movement, every adjustment, every change of pace."
**Shhhk...**
Kirito slid the grip of his wooden sword between his fingers in an unconscious gesture, his fluid movement reflecting the familiarity with the weapon before continuing to explain.
—"Someone weaker does not mean someone incapable. While you seek to improve with every practice, I do too. Every time you correct your mistakes, I also have to find a new way to challenge your abilities."
His voice was calm, but the words carried weight. Vaelinne and Lyrielle listened attentively, understanding the depth of his logic.
—"In a real battle, the enemy will not always be someone stronger than you. Sometimes they will be unpredictable movements, decisions you cannot anticipate, situations that test your adaptability. If I can face any style, any level, and keep improving, then every fight will serve me to grow."
Kirito smiled faintly, his gaze sincere.
—"So yes... Training with you makes me stronger."
Vaelinne and Lyrielle exchanged glances. The answer was not only logical but also inspiring.
Vaelinne felt a warm sensation in her chest and, as expected, did not miss the opportunity to react with her characteristic energy.
—"Ha! So the great Kirito has also gained an advantage from training us, huh? How nice, how nice!"
Before she could continue speaking, she lunged at him with a mischievous smile and gave him a hard pat on the back as she said it.
**Thwack!**
Kirito did not move, but his expression changed slightly, a faint smile crossing his face with an air of resignation.
—"Don't tell me you're going to start talking as if I were your teacher..."
Vaelinne laughed lightly, leaning a little towards him in amusement, giving him another hearty slap.
**Thwack!**
—"Come on, admit it, it's not so bad having students like us."
From her position, Lyrielle observed the scene calmly, but the warmth in her eyes revealed how much she appreciated this moment.
—"It's nice to know that our training is also important to you," she said with a sincere smile.
Kirito glanced away for a moment, as if his reflection was not something he usually said out loud. But in the end, he only let out a small sigh and smiled again.
**Thwack!**
—"See, Kirito? Even Lyrielle admits it."
Vaelinne kept taking advantage of the moment to keep slapping his back.
—"Vaelinne... you're getting your revenge for the training you lost, aren't you?"
Vaelinne laughed lightly, leaning a bit more towards him in fun while repeating the action.
—"Of course not! What makes you think that?"
**Thwack!-Thwack!**
Kirito let out another sigh, ignoring the repeated slaps on his back, while Lyrielle watched them with a calm smile. She appreciated the trust and closeness among the three, but she knew Kirito's limits well.
—"Vaelinne, enough. If you keep bothering him, you might receive a tougher lesson in the next practice."
Vaelinne froze for an instant, a slight shiver running down her spine.
—"You wouldn't do that..."
Kirito smiled with a mysterious air, his eyes reflecting a silent challenge.
—"Who knows?"
The atmosphere paused for a brief second until Vaelinne let out a slight whine and, without waiting any longer, immediately stopped hitting him.
Silence gave way to shared laughter. The tensions of the fight dissipated as the three moved away from the practice area, drying off sweat with towels as a feeling of relaxation began to settle in the atmosphere.
However, Vaelinne could not help but feel a certain unease. After a brief silence, she turned to Kirito with a confident smile.
—"It's a lie, right? You're not going to increase the intensity in the next practice..."
Kirito did not respond. He simply maintained his relaxed expression as he continued walking at his usual pace.
Vaelinne blinked, leaning slightly towards him with feigned nonchalance.
—"Right?"
Kirito still did not say a word, but his smile remained intact; it was neither mocking nor challenging... but neither did it deny anything.
Vaelinne frowned slightly, feeling a shiver run down her spine.
—"Kirito... come on, tell me you're just joking..."
**Step! Step!**
**Step! Step!**
**Step! Step!**
Silence returned. Each step they took without a clear response from Kirito only made Vaelinne's uncertainty grow stronger.
—"Kirito. Are you listening to me?"
He simply exhaled softly, with the same unreadable smile, and continued walking as if the conversation were not important enough for a verbal response.
**Gulp!**
Vaelinne swallowed.
—"You can't do this..."
The air around Kirito seemed to have a hue of calculated calm, which made a stronger shiver run through Vaelinne.
Without saying another word, Vaelinne immediately stopped insisting.
Lyrielle, who had been silently observing the scene, could not help but let out a soft laugh.
—"That's what you get for provoking him too much."
Vaelinne pouted slightly, but inside she knew that, perhaps, in the next practice, she would receive something more demanding than she expected.
**Step! Step!**
**Step! Step!**
**Step! Step!**
The three continued walking together, letting the conversation fade into the air, but with the certainty that Vaelinne's doubt would not dissipate so easily.
(*****)
The warm aroma of freshly cooked pasta filled the air, blending with the intense fragrance of the tomato sauce that was gently bubbling in the pan.
**Shhhk...**
Kirito moved the wooden spoon with precision, allowing the thick sauce to simmer. The vibrant red color came from tomatoes cultivated in his own garden within the Hidden Library, a space he had meticulously designed to obtain fresh ingredients.
Thanks to the distortion of time inside the Library, the crops grew much faster than normal, allowing him to maintain a constant supply of vegetables and herbs. The aroma of freshly chopped oregano and garlic melded with the sauce, intensifying its flavor.
**Fwip!**
He carefully poured the pasta into the colander, letting the steam rise into the air. The hot water dripped slowly as Kirito tilted the bowl with calculated movements, as if even in the kitchen he maintained his impeccable precision.
**Creak—Thmp**
The door opened with a slight creak, followed by a soft thump as it completed its movement, announcing the arrival of Vaelinne and Lyrielle.
**Step! Step!**
**Step! Step!**
Both had just stepped out of the refreshing shower, their hair still damp and the scent of soap enveloping them with a sense of tranquility after the hard training. They had used the bathroom that Kirito lent them and were now ready to replenish their energy.
Vaelinne wore a light nightgown, a red camisole with white detailing on the edges and shorts that showcased the firmness of her legs after exercising. The soft fabric fit comfortably against her body, allowing her to move freely.
Lyrielle, on the other hand, opted for a more delicate outfit, a blue blouse made of lightweight fabric with white edges and loose pants that fell elegantly over her figure. Her attire maintained a serene air, reflecting her calmer style.
**Shff... Shff...**
**Shff... Shff...**
The soft brush of the fabric accompanied each step, reflecting the difference in their movements.
Vaelinne walked energetically, her clothes adjusting dynamically to her vibrant pace.
Lyrielle, in contrast, kept a more elegant and fluid step, her outfit reflecting her natural serenity.
Vaelinne paused for a moment, her eyes shining as she noticed what Kirito was preparing.
—"Kirito! I must admit that your cooking has improved a lot since the first time. It's not that it was bad before, but now it's like comparing heaven and earth."
Kirito, not taking his eyes off the pan, let out a soft sigh as he added the final touch to the sauce, sprinkling in a pinch of fresh basil.
—"It's almost ready..."
Lyrielle smiled calmly as she approached.
—"It's true, you perfect your technique more each time. It's hard to believe that the same Kirito from before made this."
Vaelinne, not waiting any longer, quickly approached and gazed in fascination at the pasta, the aroma completely enveloping her.
—"This smells incredible... Did you know you could now open a restaurant?"
Kirito removed the pan from the heat and began mixing the sauce with the pasta, ensuring the texture was perfect.
—"It's nothing special. Before, Asuna always cooked. But after fifty years here, my skills had to improve..."
—"..."
—"..."
As he spoke, his eyes subtly scanned the faces of Vaelinne and Lyrielle, noticing how their smiles faded slightly as they absorbed the weight of his words. They didn't say it, but they felt it.
They had shared entire days with Kirito, practically five years living by his side thanks to the temporal distortion of the Hidden Library. Every training session, every conversation, every moment together added up to the time he had spent in that place.
However, while those five years represented a significant part of their lives with him, they were still a minimal fraction compared to the fifty years Kirito had spent in solitude. At most, they had taken time away from his isolation, but they did not eliminate it.
No matter how close they felt to him, the weight of the difference was undeniable.
Kirito knew that. So, before the atmosphere became melancholic, he picked up a plate and turned to them with a relaxed expression and a slight smile.
—"Come on, if you don't eat soon, it will get cold."
Vaelinne blinked for a moment, as if about to say something, but instead, she smiled. The concern was still there, but if Kirito didn't want to advance the topic, neither would she insist.
Lyrielle, more perceptive, understood his intention without the need for words.
Vaelinne, who was already standing by the kitchen watching Kirito finish preparing the food, eagerly took the plate he offered her.
Lyrielle, with her more measured demeanor, also took hers calmly, not missing the opportunity to observe the final result of the preparation.
With plates in hand, the three headed together to the dining room, where the warm lighting made the space feel even cozier after the day's efforts.
As they sat down, Vaelinne couldn't contain her excitement at the presentation of the food.
—"Hah! It looks delicious."
Lyrielle nodded with a calm smile.
—"Definitely, you improve more each time."
Kirito thanked them with a slight nod before resting his elbows on the table and looking at the served plates.
—"Well... It's time to eat."
The three joined their hands respectfully and pronounced naturally:
—"Itadakimasu."
—"Itadakimasu."
—"Itadakimasu."
After thanking for the meal, they picked up their chopsticks, broke them apart with precision, and began to eat, letting the day's effort dissipate in the pleasure of a good meal.
—"Mmm..."
As soon as Vaelinne brought the first bite to her mouth, her expression changed completely. Her eyes sparkled with satisfaction, and unable to help it, she rested a hand on her cheek as she savored the dish with delight.
—"Kirito... you improve more each time. You already cooked well before, but now it's incredible. Over time, you've taken your skill to another level."
Kirito, hearing her, let out a soft laugh before shaking his head calmly.
—"You're still on that. You're exaggerating, Vaelinne."
Vaelinne, without stopping to eat, slightly furrowed her brow in clear disapproval, but before she could retort, Lyrielle had already taken her first bite calmly, allowing her to express her opinion without rushing.
With her eyes briefly closed, she savored the dish before nodding with conviction.
—"It's not exaggeration, Kirito. It's really impressive how much you've improved."
Kirito, although still thinking they were exaggerating, couldn't help but appreciate the kind gesture.
—"Well... thanks to both of you. I'm glad you like my home-cooked meal."
He knew his skills had progressed over the years, but he rarely stopped to evaluate them compared to the past. It was in moments like this, sharing food with them, that he truly noticed the difference.
**Shff—Tap.**
The subtle brush of the chopsticks glided across the plate before Vaelinne took another bite.
"Mmm..."
Another soft sigh of satisfaction escaped her lips as she enjoyed the dish.
—"If you were outside, you could open a restaurant without any problem. Obviously, you can't do it now, but in the outside world, you would be a success."
Kirito smiled slightly, unable to avoid imagining the scene for a brief moment.
—"The outside world..."
He murmured those words softly, almost to himself. His gaze briefly wandered over the surface of the plate, as if his thoughts had taken a different course.
The outside world. That place that for them represented a logical destination, a certainty in their future, but for him remained a challenge full of uncertain possibilities.
For a brief moment, the sound of food on the table seemed to fade. The shadows of his memories, the weight of the time spent in isolation, everything threatened to enter his mind.
**Shff—Tap.**
But before his expression revealed more than necessary, Kirito took another bite and focused on the taste.
—"Haaah... yes, it's quite good."
His words were almost a conscious distraction. The slight breath, the effort to remain present in the conversation, all were part of his decision not to let himself be carried away by unnecessary thoughts.
Vaelinne and Lyrielle exchanged a brief glance. Both noticed the moment Kirito became pensive, but neither wanted to point it out.
Vaelinne was the first to react, showing an animated smile to recover the energy of the conversation.
—"Well, when you return, you can make others try your new skills and see how far your cooking talent has come."
—"Yes, you could ask Asuna to rate you..."
Lyrielle added calmly, following the change in tone without creating any awkward pauses.
On the table, alongside the plates, there was a traditional drink served in small cups, its fresh aroma perfectly complementing the flavor of the pasta.
**Tap—Lift.**
**Sip… Hff.**
Kirito lifted his cup calmly, taking a sip and enjoying the warmth of the liquid before breaking into a slight smile.
—"I guess when I go out into the world, I can check it for myself."
His tone was relaxed, allowing the subject to dissipate naturally.
**Tap—Lift.**
**Sssip… Haa…**
Vaelinne took her cup enthusiastically, enjoying the warmth of the drink before taking another bite with renewed energy. It was evident that the food was fulfilling its purpose: restoring strength and relaxing the atmosphere.
It was then that Vaelinne, with her characteristic enthusiasm, shifted the course of the conversation.
—"Oh, by the way... Tsukigaki, Amayori, and Takiguri have also been enjoying the food you send them. Even if it's little, they love the taste and are always eager to receive it."
Lyrielle nodded, supporting the comment with a calmer tone.
—"Yes, in fact, when they see us, they're not as focused on us as they are on trying to sniff out where we hide the food before giving it to them."
Kirito let out a brief but genuine laugh, his expression relaxing slightly at the comment.
—"That sounds like something typical of them. How have they been?"
**Slrrp… Mmm…**
Lyrielle brought her cup to her lips before responding calmly.
—"Well, although they seem more impatient when they see us. I think they are already associating our arrival with your food."
Kirito nodded with a smile as he rested his elbows on the table. Remembering the dragons brought him a sense of tranquility.
When his mind felt saturated with his research, he would often leave the Hidden Library and head to the Dark Cave, the place where he first met Vaelinne and Lyrielle upon arriving in this world.
Although the modifications he had made in the Cathedral granted him access to almost any place within its vast structure, the Dark Cave remained his only safe refuge when he needed to clear his mind.
There, Tsukigaki, Amayori, and Takiguri became his only companions, helping him release the tension built up after every cycle of analysis and discoveries.
For them, his presence was always well received. They not only recognized him as someone trustworthy but even showed a certain attachment toward him, approaching naturally and accepting his gestures of affection.
In that hidden refuge, away from any prying eyes, Kirito found a space where he could release his thoughts without reservation.
Secrecy was paramount, and that cave ensured that his presence remained invisible to the world of Underworld, preventing his movements from being detected.
For the dragons, the time elapsed between their encounters was insignificant, barely moments from their perception.
But for Kirito, every time he visited them, weeks, even months had passed since his last outing.
**Sip… Hff.**
He let out a soft sigh, hiding it with another sip of his drink before returning to the present.
Vaelinne took another bite and smiled with satisfaction.
—"Well, now that we know the dragons enjoy your food so much, maybe you could make them something special next time."
After hearing that last comment, Kirito set his cup down on the table and, with a slight smile, exhaled calmly.
—"Sure, I will."
With that, they continued enjoying the meal, finishing it in no time and feeling fully satisfied.
The feeling of calm at the table was undeniable. As usual, after eating, Kirito maintained light conversation with them, taking the opportunity to catch up.
At some point, he asked with interest about the state of planet Admina and the crops.
Lyrielle, with her usual serenity, took her cup calmly before responding with a slight smile.
—"Things have been improving. Thanks to your help, we have optimized several processes and increased productivity. Now the planet is in a much more stable stage."
Kirito listened attentively as Lyrielle continued explaining.
—"The seeds have also evolved; they are now more resistant, which has allowed the crops to thrive in more varied conditions. Furthermore, more and more people have decided to move to the planet."
Kirito simply nodded, as if he considered it something natural, without giving it too much importance.
—"Well, it was to be expected..."
Vaelinne, who had been listening with her arms crossed, let out a slight laugh before looking at him with a firm expression.
—"You have the bad habit of downplaying what you do, Kirito."
Vaelinne raised an eyebrow with a playful reproachful air before continuing.
—"Maybe you don't realize it, but some of your ideas have had a surprising impact. Sometimes you don't even plan them; they just come to you suddenly, and we end up finding a way to make it seem like part of our own research... so that no one suspects."
Kirito let out a slight smile at the comment, not denying what Vaelinne said.
He knew he always acted discreetly in his current situation in this world, but discovering that his actions were leaving a mark, even indirectly, brought him a strange sense of satisfaction.
It was then that Lyrielle, with her calm voice, intervened with a significant look.
—"Even if you are not the king, you always find a way to help. I remember when we mentioned to you that the situation wasn't showing much progress... and without thinking too much, you were already looking for a way to change that."
Vaelinne nodded, her tone less playful this time but with a hint of pride in her words.
—"And that's what makes it even more special. Despite your own hands being full with your own problems, you still find time to help us and help the kingdom."
**Shff—Clink.**
Lyrielle gently set her cup on the table before completing the thought.
—"It's not just strategy or necessity. It's your own kindness."
Kirito blinked for a moment, processing the words of both. He had never considered the impact of his actions from that perspective, but hearing it from them made him recognize it clearly.
"Haaah…"
Finally, he exhaled softly, his expression adopting a more serious tone before speaking calmly.
—"I suppose not everyone is happy."
The expressions of Vaelinne and Lyrielle grew more serious as they understood where the conversation was heading.
—"The four emperors..."
—murmured Lyrielle in a measured tone.
Vaelinne nodded with a slight inclination of her head before continuing.
—"They act as if nothing is happening, at least on the surface. But we have seen certain strange movements... signs of discontent."
Lyrielle rested a hand on the table, her calm yet analytical gaze reflecting an underlying unease.
—"It's as if they don't like the improvement. The stability we have achieved and the progress of the kingdom should be well received, but their reaction indicates the opposite. As if they fear what it represents."
Kirito briefly closed his eyes in thought before breaking into a cryptic smile and responding.
—"Yes... Don't worry too much... I've already taken certain precautions."
The confident tone of his words provoked an immediate reaction in both.
Vaelinne slightly furrowed her brow, intrigued by his demeanor, while Lyrielle kept her gaze fixed on him, awaiting an explanation.
**Scrape—Clink**
The chair scraped lightly against the floor, the sound marking the sudden action.
Without adding anything else, Kirito stood up calmly, leaving the girls surprised.
Vaelinne and Lyrielle exchanged a quick glance, curiosity shining in their eyes as they watched him. There was no doubt they wanted to know more, and the plea in Vaelinne's voice made it evident.
—"Kirito, you can't leave us like this! If you know more, you should tell us right away."
But he simply shook his head calmly before leaning slightly over the table.
—"First, you both are going to wash the dishes while I take a bath."
Vaelinne looked at him, perplexed by the sudden demand.
—"Eh?"
**Clack**
The dry sound of the cup being lifted briefly broke the stillness of the atmosphere. Kirito took it calmly, the edge of the ceramic barely grazing his fingers before he let it drop onto his plate.
A moment of silence.
**Hfff—Clack**
Then, with a relaxed movement, he gently pushed the plate toward them, creating a barely perceptible slide over the surface of the table, accompanied by a soft brush between the ceramic and the wood.
As he did so, his voice resonated with calm but firmness.
—"The last time I had to do it alone, so now it's your turn."
Vaelinne pouted, clearly annoyed, but she knew he was a man of his word. If he said he would talk later, he would.
Lyrielle, on the other hand, nodded naturally as if the request was completely logical.
Without wasting time, she began taking the plates from the table and, in a calm tone, encouraged Vaelinne to help.
—"Come on, don't think you're going to escape this."
Kirito let out a brief laugh as he watched the scene unfold before him.
—"If you don't help, Vaelinne, then I'll just tell Lyrielle privately. You'll have to wait... who knows how long."
Vaelinne looked at him incredulously before letting out a resigned whine.
—"That's cruel, Kirito..."
Lyrielle also nodded and added determinedly:
—"If you don't help me, I'll tell Kirito. I won't let you get away with this, Vaelinne."
Vaelinne let out an exasperated sigh, frowning as she pointed at her.
—"You're with him too!"
Lyrielle shrugged with a slight smile.
—"Isn't it obvious? If I don't do this, you'll surely play dumb and won't help me."
Kirito watched the interaction with amusement as Vaelinne blushed slightly, frustrated with the situation.
—"Fine, fine... I accept!"
She finally replied, resigned.
Starting to gather the plates with Lyrielle, knowing she had no other choice.
As the girls busied themselves with the task, Kirito calmly headed off to take his well-deserved bath for the day.
(*****)
The girls were sitting again after finishing washing the dishes, anticipation charging the air with a silent tension. Each expressed her impatience in a different way.
**Tap... tap... tap...**
Vaelinne rhythmically moved her feet against the floor, the constant tapping gently resonating in the room. Lyrielle, true to her usual calm, frowned before giving her a warning look.
—"Vaelinne… stop making noise with your feet."
**Thmp**
Vaelinne raised an eyebrow and, without thinking twice, gently pushed Lyrielle's leg with a challenging and teasing gesture.
—"Oh, and you? You haven't stopped looking where Kirito went..."
Lyrielle let out a slight sigh, barely moving her leg in response. Her gaze remained fixed on Vaelinne, who wore a satisfied smile before crossing her arms.
—"I'm just waiting for him… but in a more peaceful way."
Lyrielle maintained her stoic expression, but her tone reflected that she was trying to justify herself.
**Tap… Tap… Tap…**
The sound of firm footsteps resonated in the room, their constant rhythm announcing Kirito's imminent presence.
**Shff…**
The documents crinkled softly in his hands, the rustling of the sheets generating a discreet murmur in the air. The girls looked up instantly, attentive to his arrival. Kirito entered the room with a considerable volume of documents in one hand and a tablet in the other.
**Thud**
As he approached the table, he dropped the papers with a dry and dense sound, an impact that made clear their weight and relevance. Vaelinne and Lyrielle observed the scene carefully, watching how the papers slightly spread out over the surface.
**Thmp**
The slight impact of the chair against the floor marked the moment when Kirito sat down calmly.
**Shff…**
His fingers slid slowly along the edges of the documents, the paper barely crinkling under his touch, generating a dry yet subtle sound. Kirito looked over the content for a moment, scanning the written lines with attention. The girls, unable to contain their curiosity, asked simultaneously, each in her own way: Vaelinne, with her latent impatience:
—"What is all this?! What do you have there?"
Lyrielle, more measured but equally intrigued:
—"Kirito, explain to us. What are these files you brought?"
Kirito spoke just a few calm words, answering their questions straightforwardly:
—"Check this out."
Without saying more, he took one of the many documents in front of him and slid it toward them with a firm movement.
**Shff…**
The soft sliding of the paper over the table generated a faint sound, the rustling of the documents against the wooden surface resonating discreetly.
**Thmp**
The subtle but decisive impact marked the seriousness of the situation. The sheets lay in front of them. The weight of the information was evident, and the tension in the air became palpable. Vaelinne and Lyrielle quickly took the documents, feeling the weight of the information in their hands. With each page they turned, their expressions transformed, surprise giving way to an unsettling understanding. Lyrielle slightly furrowed her brow, her analytical gaze scanning the details of the first report.
—"This… are strategic specifications."
Vaelinne, more impulsive, leafed through the documents quickly, her expression changing to astonishment.
—"Advanced technology... designs of the mecha-dragons... weapon schematics..."
Suddenly, her hands stopped as she opened another document. It was a detailed analysis of the structure of the Cathedral, highlighting key points for a possible attack. Vaelinne blinked in disbelief, feeling her breath become heavier as she observed the information.
—"Wait… why do you have this?"
Kirito tilted his head slightly, his expression calm but with a calculating air.
—"They're not mine. They belong to the four emperors."
The words fell like a blow in the room. Vaelinne and Lyrielle looked at each other in surprise, processing the gravity of what they had just heard. Lyrielle, more analytical, refocused on the documents before asking, her tone serene but loaded with tension.
—"How did you get them? When did you leave the Cathedral?"
Vaelinne, more direct, frowned with concern.
—"Did you take them directly from them? Why did you take the risk?"
Kirito smiled slightly, noticing that their concern for him outweighed their worry about the documents, before calmly responding.
—"You're right… I stole them."
Vaelinne and Lyrielle held their breath, processing the revelation. Kirito leaned his elbows on the table, maintaining his composure as he continued.
—"But I've never gone beyond floor 95… I've only visited the dragons."
The weight of his words made the silence in the room become dense, filled with uncertainty and unanswered questions.
**Shff...**
The soft and controlled sound of the tablet sliding over the table marked the pause in the conversation.
**Tap**
Kirito raised a hand precisely, the slight movement generating a moment of silence among them.
—"I'm not done yet."
Lyrielle exhaled slowly before extending her fingers toward the device, her contact on the screen emitting a faint click as she held it firmly.
—"Now play the audio."
Without hesitation, Vaelinne reacted first, touching the interface before Lyrielle could do so.
**Beep**
The device activated with a slight hum, and immediately, the room filled with the clear sound of an ongoing conversation, the voice emerging from the tablet with an unsettling clarity. The first voice to resonate was that of a young man, his firm tone reflecting notable authority despite his age.
[—"Gentlemen, I have already told you to remain calm."]
The sound in the recording was irregular; his voice was clear while others seemed to come from an electronic communication device, indicating that not all participants were in the same room. Only one was physically present… and it was the first voice that was heard.
[{—"How do you expect us to remain calm?"}]
Another male voice intervened, his tone reflecting growing tension.
[{—"Don't you see that the kingdom is starting to prosper? More reports have come in about their progress on planet Admina. We should act immediately."}]
A third male voice, more calculating, joined the conversation with a strategic and cold tone:
[{—"That's true. We have the necessary power to take control right now. We can't just sit back while they continue strengthening their positions and expanding."}]
[{—"I've obtained information from some of my spies..."}]
At that moment, a female voice intervened calmly, but with an authority that did not lose firmness in front of the others:
[{—"The boys get desperate too quickly. Personally, I think Emperor Agmar is right. If we want to ensure our strike is definitive, we must wait a few more years."}]
[...]
There was a brief silence, as if some were processing what they had just heard. Then, Agmar responded with a grateful tone, but with unwavering confidence:
[—"Finally, someone with common sense. Acting hastily would only shake my own situation… and yours too. If we make a mistake now, we could delay our plan indefinitely."]
[**Crrk…**]
The sound of a slight crackle in the recording suggested that Agmar was moving in his seat before continuing.
[—"That's why we must keep watching and gathering information before executing any moves."]
The same male voice, colder and more calculating, interjected with a hint of concern.
[{—"And about the Integry Knights who remain in cryogenic state... They have shown impressive power throughout history. Shouldn't we consider them a threat if they awaken?"}]
Agmar responded calmly, as if he had already pondered the issue.
[—"It's a factor we cannot ignore. But if we do things right, everything will go according to plan... and we will eliminate them in the process."]
In the recording, some voices murmured with resignation, and the second voice that had shown the most tension at the beginning responded heavily.
[{—"We'll wait a little longer, Agmar... but if things continue out of control, we'll have to intervene directly, without you."}]
Suddenly, Agmar's voice became more severe and cold, breaking into the conversation with a clear warning.
[—"If you act rashly, I doubt you'll withstand the consequences..."]
[...]
A tense silence settled in the audio, followed by a response laden with discomfort.
[{—"Are you threatening me?"}]
he asked indignantly from the communicator. Agmar responded without hesitation, his tone unperturbed.
[—"No. I'm just suggesting what could happen. Interpret it as you wish."]
[...]
There was another prolonged silence before the woman in the conversation intervened with a pragmatic tone.
[{—"That's enough. We shouldn't prolong this conversation here. We all know it's better to avoid too much direct communication like this."}]
Agmar exhaled slowly to calm his tone before responding.
[—"I know. We have no other choice."]
One by one, the participants began to close the communication, their voices gradually dissipating. But before cutting hers, the woman left one last warning:
[{—"I hope you don't make a mistake, Agmar..."}]
Without waiting for a response, she closed the connection. Before the recording ended, Agmar spoke one last time, his tone lower but with firm conviction, as if responding to her warning.
[—"I know what's at stake. But if we do things right, we will take what rightfully belongs to us."]
There was a brief silence before his voice turned more bitter.
[—"If it weren't for that damn Kirito... and that bitch Asuna who are dead... this kingdom would already be ours."]
[**Tap… Tap… Tap…**]
The firm footsteps resonated intensely, receding in the recording, their relentless rhythm marking the last moment of the conversation.
[**Clack—Thud**]
The dry noise of a door slamming shut broke the atmosphere, a final impact sealing the interlocutor's departure.
**Beep**
The tablet screen showed the end of the recent recording, returning the room to its original silence.
—"..."
—"..."
Vaelinne and Lyrielle remained still, their expressions frozen in a mix of disbelief and shock. The evidence was clear. The documents. The conversation. Everything pointed to the same thing. The air in the room became dense, charged with uncertainty.
**Crrk...**
The paper crinkled under the pressure of their fingers, the dry sound reflecting the intensity of their grip. Vaelinne gripped the documents tightly, her fingers tensing over the paper as her jaw clenched, containing her indignation.
—"Hff..."
She let out a heavy sigh, her irregular breathing barely audible.
—"How dare they?…"
She murmured quietly, her tone filled with anger, the tension vibrating in the air. Lyrielle, more analytical, scanned the documents again with her eyes, her thoughts racing as she tried to process every detail. The information about the mecha-dragons. The strategic points of the Cathedral. The infiltrated spies. Everything fit. But it also raised more questions than they could answer.
—"..."
Kirito watched them in silence, allowing them to absorb the gravity of the situation without rushing them. After a few moments, Lyrielle looked up, her expression marked by the need for answers.
—"Kirito... how did you get this information?"
Her voice sounded firm, but the slight tremor in her words revealed the avalanche of thoughts in her mind.
—"How did you know? How did you record it...? There are so many things I don't know where to start..."
Vaelinne, still holding the documents tightly, nodded decisively before joining the plea.
—"This is too important. Please, tell us everything."
Kirito exhaled calmly, his gaze remaining steady as he nodded slightly.
—"I will. Take it easy."
He placed a hand firmly on the table before continuing.
—"They don't know about this… just as you didn't know in the first place."
Both kept their attention fixed on him, waiting for every word.
—"As I told you, I haven't left the Cathedral… but since you—"
Kirito looked directly at Lyrielle before completing the sentence.
—"Since you asked me for help… and that, indirectly, I got involved in helping the kingdom… I took the liberty of doing a little more."
Lyrielle remembered the moment when she and Vaelinne, inside the cave, told him about the state of the kingdom. Kirito leaned back in his chair before continuing.
—"But first... do you remember that I mentioned someone who was watching me without my knowledge when I traveled with Eugeo?"
Vaelinne leaned slightly forward, trying to get ahead of his answer. Lyrielle was quicker.
—"You mean Charlotte…"
Her voice sounded softer as she pronounced that name.
—"The tiny spider who saved you… and who gave her life to protect you."
Kirito briefly closed his eyes before responding.
—"Exactly."
Lyrielle opened her eyes wider, a flash of understanding reflected in her gaze.
—"Don't tell me… did you do the same as Cardinal?"
Kirito nodded silently, needing to say nothing more.
From the pile of documents in front of him, he took one in particular and slid it precisely toward Lyrielle.
It was a detailed design. In the center of the sheet, a spider-shaped structure stood out with precise strokes, accompanied by a number: "01".
The girls leaned over the paper, analyzing it closely.
The material described in the document indicated that the creature was composed of a dark crystal of rocky origin, its surface reflecting a sturdy yet refined texture.
At first glance, it seemed large in the schematic, but upon observing the technical details, they noticed something unsettling.
Lyrielle, with her analytical gaze, read the numbers beside the design.
—"The size... is incredibly tiny."
Vaelinne furrowed her brow with curiosity, scanning the document until she finally found the most intriguing part.
The spider's eyes seemed to incorporate some type of lens, a small hidden camera in its structure.
When they understood what they were seeing, both looked up at Kirito simultaneously.
—"Kirito... Did you make one?"
Kirito smiled faintly before responding calmly.
—"More than one."
Lyrielle squinted before asking, seeking more precise answers.
—"What do you mean?"
Kirito rested his elbows on the table and looked at them calmly.
—"I made enough to investigate every important person in the kingdom... and protect what I consider valuable."
Vaelinne crossed her arms, intrigued.
—"Protect what exactly?"
Kirito slightly diverted his gaze toward them before his attention subtly but clearly focused on their hair.
The girls exchanged a look before raising their eyes, not fully understanding what he was seeing.
It was then that Kirito extended a hand and calmly pronounced:
—"Come out, 01 and 02."
Immediately, two tiny black shapes began to descend slowly from their hair.
One on Vaelinne.
Another on Lyrielle.
The creatures slid down nimbly, growing slightly as they reached the table, where they were finally exposed to them.
The girls leaned in to see them in more detail, their eyes wide open as they noticed how small they were.
Kirito waved his hand over the table in an introductory gesture.
—"I present to you Number One and Number Two."
Lyrielle, still surprised, looked closely at the tiny spiders.
—"They don't have names..."
—"Because they are not alive like Charlotte. But they are intelligent, even though they are just golems."
Vaelinne furrowed her brow before asking the inevitable question:
—"Have you been watching us this whole time, Kirito?"
Kirito shook his head calmly before clarifying.
—"No. I have been taking care of them."
The girls looked at each other with a mix of surprise and confusion.
Kirito continued in a measured tone.
—"I figured there could be spies in the kingdom. I couldn't trust anyone, so I decided to keep them close to you as a measure of protection."
Lyrielle maintained her serious expression before pointing at the spiders.
—"What exactly do they record?"
Kirito leaned back in his chair before responding.
—"Only conversations with other people. As for your private life, they are strictly programmed not to record anything... respecting your privacy."
Even so, the girls remained silent for a moment, a faint blush on their cheeks as they imagined what they could have captured.
Kirito, as if reading their thoughts, raised his hands in an innocent gesture.
—"Please, I haven't done anything inappropriate... they are my friends."
Vaelinne looked at him seriously before sighing, dismissing any unnecessary thought.
—"Well, we'll talk about that later..."
She cleared her throat and redirected the conversation back to the main topic.
—"But I suppose you also used them to spy on the emperors and their spies."
Kirito smiled with satisfaction before nodding.
—"Exactly. As you can see, they are almost undetectable... and can become even smaller than a hair."
The girls looked down at the tiny spiders, watching how they moved their legs in small gestures, as if they were waving.
Lyrielle let out a sigh before murmuring calmly:
—"Now I understand how you felt, Kirito, when Charlotte was watching you."
Kirito smiled slightly before nodding.
—"I suppose so."
Kirito resumed the conversation, his gaze fixed on the tiny spiders on the table.
—"These little friends are great spies. Thanks to them, I have obtained all these documents and information... or rather, I copied them. Just like the audio."
The girls exchanged looks of amazement, their curiosity growing.
Lyrielle, more analytical, was the first to ask, her tone marked by disbelief.
—"How is it possible for such a tiny spider to carry such important documents or files?"
Vaelinne nodded firmly before joining the question.
—"Yes, how do they work exactly?"
Kirito smiled mysteriously before responding.
—"Well, how about I show you?"
The spiders, as if they understood the instruction, took positions at different points on the table.
One in the right corner.
Another on the left.
Kirito placed a document in front of one of them and a blank sheet in front of the other.
The girls watched attentively, trying to understand what was about to happen.
**Tch—Zzzzt**
Then, the first spider moved one of its legs over the original document, activating a faint glow that appeared just beneath its contact.
**Bzzzt—Chirp**
A circuit of light subtly spread across the sheet, a special pattern that seemed to reflect coded lines.
Kirito maintained his serene expression before turning his gaze toward the second spider.
The other creature replicated the same gesture, touching the blank paper with precision.
**Tch—Zzzzt**
The flash was almost imperceptible, but the process happened in a matter of seconds.
The girls didn't understand what was happening... until the blank paper began to glow faintly and letters appeared on it.
The document now had an identical copy.
Kirito took both sheets and slid them toward them.
—"Check it out. There is no difference between the original and the copy."
Vaelinne quickly took the paper, comparing the details with the original document.
Lyrielle, more meticulous, examined each line before her eyes widened in surprise.
—"It's identical..."
Kirito nodded with satisfaction.
—"Exactly. Every file, every document or blueprint... I can copy it without the original disappearing."
The girls were left speechless, realizing the magnitude of the discovery.
Kirito crossed his arms before continuing.
—"The owners never realize that their information is within someone else's reach... I was inspired by a device from my world to develop this."
Vaelinne exhaled forcefully before shaking her head in disbelief.
—"This is revolutionary for espionage..."
Kirito smiled calmly before continuing.
—"And about the audio, it's even simpler."
The girls refocused their attention on him.
—"They have a built-in function to record and transmit information. They are all connected as one. If one detects something, the others also record it."
Lyrielle slightly furrowed her brow, intrigued by the concept.
—"Does that mean if one of them is destroyed...?"
Kirito nodded as he said.
—"The others will keep the information intact."
Vaelinne looked at the spiders with a new perspective, understanding that their size could deceive anyone... but their technology was more advanced than they had ever seen.
—"Did you design all this inside the Library... even though you're already so busy with your own problem?"
Kirito nodded confidently before resting his hands on the table.
—"Remember what I told you... 'Knowledge is power'."
He leaned slightly forward.
—"This is just a sample of what I have achieved with my research. I didn't rest on my laurels. I knew that if I wanted to protect what matters, I had to do something more."
Lyrielle kept her gaze fixed on the documents, feeling a deep respect for Kirito's dedication.
Vaelinne, more impulsive by nature, this time simply let out a heavy exhale.
—"I don't know if this surprises me or worries me..."
Kirito smiled faintly before responding calmly.
—"Both things."
Despite the simplicity of his words, the girls knew that what Kirito had done was something enormous.
Regardless of their differences in personality, both felt the same: immense gratitude, genuine admiration, and deep respect.
But before those emotions could fully manifest, Kirito firmly interrupted them.
—"Now we have to act. We must get ahead before they make their move with the information obtained by their spies and strike."
Vaelinne and Lyrielle exchanged concerned looks before nodding.
Lyrielle, more analytical, was the first to speak, her tone reflecting the seriousness of the situation.
—"You're right... but how can we deliver this information to our superiors without raising suspicions?"
Vaelinne, despite her impulsive nature, seemed calmer this time, understanding the weight of the decision they had to make.
—"Yes... it's complicated. They will ask us many questions, and we have no convincing way to explain how we obtained this information."
Kirito leaned slightly over the table, his expression serious as he analyzed the best way to handle the situation.
—"I've thought about this too... You can't say you just found it. That lie wouldn't withstand close scrutiny."
The girls looked at each other, understanding the difficulty of the situation.
—"So, how do we do it?"
Lyrielle asked, her tone reflecting uncertainty.
Kirito remained calm before continuing.
—"The best option is to present it as information obtained from an external informant who contacted you in secret."
Vaelinne furrowed her brow, intrigued.
—"An informant?"
Kirito nodded again.
—"Someone who delivered these documents and the audio in person in an alley but concealed their identity for protection."
The girls paid even more attention.
Kirito continued, his tone firm but calculating.
—"You must say that this informant appeared with their face covered and their body completely concealed, ensuring not to leave any identifiable traits. They didn't want to reveal who they were because if they are discovered, both they and their family would be in danger."
Lyrielle nodded slowly.
—"If we describe it this way, our superiors will assume that there is indeed someone infiltrated and that they are sharing information out of fear of enemy spies."
Vaelinne crossed her arms before nodding.
—"And no one will question the validity of the information because what is at stake is too important... They will surely investigate further to ensure completely."
Kirito smiled slightly, satisfied with both of their understanding.
—"Exactly. This way we ensure that the information is taken seriously without linking me to the acquisition of the documents."
The girls exchanged one last look before nodding with determination.
Lyrielle took the documents firmly.
—"Alright, then we will present it this way."
Vaelinne clenched her fists with conviction.
—"And we will ensure it seems completely credible."
Kirito nodded, pleased with the decision.
—"Now we can act with confidence. Let's do it right... What matters is getting ahead before it's too late."
His gaze sharpened as he continued.
—"Give them everything. Make sure they understand how serious this is. And, more importantly... tell them they must attack before...."
Lyrielle slightly furrowed her brow.
—"Before?"
Kirito nodded confidently.
—"The four have said they expect a few more years before executing the strike. But if we let that time pass, when they attack, they will do so with all their power. We must take the initiative before their structure becomes harder to dismantle."
Vaelinne took a deep breath before nodding with determination.
Lyrielle, still reflecting on every detail, crossed her arms before adding one last question.
—"If we make a move, how do we prevent this from causing an open war with the four emperors?"
Kirito smiled faintly before narrowing his eyes with a mysterious air.
—"Well... This is exactly what you will tell your superiors."
The girls looked at each other before fixing their gaze back on Kirito.
The atmosphere became heavy, laden with expectations about what would come next.